Defending-champion Roughriders having their struggles late in CFL regular season

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are facing a challenging stretch at the end of their season. Defending Grey Cup champions, the Roughriders have suffered four consecutive losses. Their final match of the regular season is against the Montreal Alouettes on Saturday, completing a home-and-home series. The Alouettes recently defeated Saskatchewan 44-24 at Molson Stadium, marking the first meeting between the two teams since last year's Grey Cup game.

However, Saskatchewan secured their playoff berth with a win against Montreal and the hope that either Calgary or Winnipeg loses. The Blue Bombers (8-8) will visit the Edmonton Elks (12-4) on Friday, while the Stampeders (8-9) host the B.C. Lions (10-6) on Saturday. Neither Saskatchewan nor Calgary can host a playoff game, but Edmonton could clinch first in the West division and host the division final on November 7 with either a win over Winnipeg or a B.C. loss.

The Lions can secure a home playoff game with a victory or a Winnipeg loss. The East is set with Montreal clinching first place.

Last week, Montreal's Davis Alexander threw for 403 yards with five touchdowns and an interception against Saskatchewan. Alexander leads the CFL in passing yards (5,247), touchdowns (35), and completion percentage (72.1). Against the Roughriders, Alexander completed 23-of-33 passes for 243 yards, including two touchdowns and an interception.